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Energy companies ‘blocking price comparison’

26/09/2008

Several energy companies are blocking price comparison websites from accessing their best deals, it has emerged.

Price comparison site Fool.co.uk say that a number of companies are updating their tariffs several days after the prices are announced on their own websites, in an apparent attempt to limit the amount of customers getting the cheapest deals.

This is in conflict with Energywatch’s Confidence Code, which advises suppliers to ensure all their tariffs are listed on comparison sites.

The main issues occur when companies are slow to update prices on existing tariffs, meaning customers may be misled as to what the best deals are at any given time.

A spokesperson for debt management company Gregory Pennington said: “This highlights a lack of honesty amongst energy suppliers. In the current climate, finding the cheapest energy deal is important, as it can save a lot of money and help to keep people out of debt.

“We recommend anyone using price comparison websites to contact the supplier beforehand to make sure the plan they choose is being offered as advertised.”

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